RIEMA to host official commemoration ceremony for the first two StormReady communities in Rhode Island – Portsmouth and Smithfield.

Tuesday, December 13, 2005

10 AM - 11 AM: RI Emergency Management Agency 645 New London Avenue Cranston, RI

Cranston, RI --- The Towns of Portsmouth, RI and Smithfield, RI will be the first two communities in Rhode Island (and fifth and sixth in all of southern New England) to be recognized as StormReady by the National Weather Service. "This prestigious StormReady distinction is an excellent reflection on the emergency management operations in Smithfield and Portsmouth," Lt. Governor Charles Fogarty, Chair of the Emergency Management Advisory Council, stated. "Both communities should be commended for their tremendous work to enhance communications, awareness and preparedness. More importantly, their efforts will improve safety and could help save lives."

StormReady is a National Weather Service program that addresses the need for a higher level of community awareness in order to minimize the loss of life and property from extreme weather. StormReady improves communication and increases awareness and preparedness in a community, and involves an application and recognition process. StormReady prepares communities to respond to the threat of severe weather. A StormReady designation lasts for three (3) years, after which the community must re-apply for recognition.

In order to be designated as StormReady, both Portsmouth and Smithfield met or exceeded established criteria in six (6) areas: 1) Communications, 2) NWS Information Reception, 3) Weather & Water Monitoring Systems, 4) Local Warning Dissemination, including NOAA Weather Radios in local city or government-owned buildings with public access, 5) Community Preparedness- Safety/Spotter Talks and public education via media, and 6) Administrative Tools/Record Keeping.

As of December 2, 2005 there were 1002 StormReady communities in 49 states. Some insurance companies across the country have expressed a willingness to lower premium rates on residential and business properties in StormReady communities. Of course, StormReady communities also have some “bragging rights” that come along with the designation! Being StormReady is a significant accomplishment. Additional information about StormReady can be found at http://www.nws.noaa.gov/stormready .

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Glenn Field of the National Weather Service via email at: glenn.field@noaa.gov or by phone at 508-823-1983.

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